Armenia Coins Catalog

Armenia Coins Catalog

Lions, crosses, cramped legends that barely fit the flan. Medieval silver that passed through Cilicia. Modern issues were born out of the chaos of the 1990s: this is the whole aesthetic of Armenian coins.

The country had lost independence, borrowed currencies, and the decision to bring the dram back when Armenia finally stood on its own again. Some people collect these coins for bullion, but you may chase specific kings, mints, or years.

History of Armenia Coinage

• In medieval times, you see silver pieces called dram or tram (Cilician Armenia loved them), and the types get specific: half-tram, takvorin, tank, pogh 

• Names like Levon I, Levon II, Levon III, Hetoum I, and Queen Zabel show up on pieces that look simple at first glance, then you notice the lion, the cross, and the little legends around the rim

• Fast-forward and you get imperial rubles, Soviet systems, the short-lived post-USSR “rouble zone” attempt… then Armenia exits and brings back its own currency on 22 November 1993. The Central Bank of Armenia (set up in 1993) takes control of issuance and policy

Design and Features of Armenia Coins

Modern pieces have national symbols. The coat of arms is the anchor motif, and the dram sign (֏) ended up standardized in the mid-1990s after years of informal sketches in business notes. Early circulation piece leaned light (aluminum luma pieces and small dram values). Later issues change materials, sizes, and edges.

Modern Armenia Currency and Collectible Issues

In daily life, Armenian dram collectors go a different direction: Armenia coin in silver bullion coins are in a more affordable category. Armenian gold coins are usually bought as small, portable items with a story attached. 

Circulating series arrived in waves: the first set in 1994 (luma and low dram), then a bigger refresh in the early 2000s with higher values that made more sense in shops. On top of that, the Central Bank keeps issuing commemoratives aimed straight at collectors.

Why Collect Armenia Coins

First, medieval pieces are beautiful: once you’ve held a worn takvorin, you start hunting for sharper lions and cleaner crosses like it’s a game. Second, modern issues give you a great start to a collecting hobby. Armenian silver coin, for example, is pretty valuable, but their pricing can be friendly. You don’t need museum money to start with a decent Armenian silver coin.